Bleacher Report - NFLhttp://bleacherreport.com/
Bleacher Report - The open source sports networken-us30Fact or Fiction: Breaking Down RGIII, Orakpo and More Redskins Offseason RumorsTeam Stream Now<img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif"><p class="ui-droppable"><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt=""></p><p class="ui-droppable">The <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/washington-redskins">Washington Redskins</a> head into the 2015 offseason with plenty of questions surrounding their roster.</p><p class="ui-droppable">Which players will they pursue in free agency? Will Brian <span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck">Orakpo</span></span> return to the Redskins?</p><p class="ui-droppable">Watch as <a href="http://www.twitter.com/stephen__nelson">Stephen Nelson</a> and Bleacher Report NFL Analyst Chris <span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck">Simms</span></span> discuss Washington's offseason in the video above.&nbsp;</p><p>Read more <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/nfl" title="NFL analysis, news and photos">NFL</a> news on BleacherReport.com</p>Tue, 03 Mar 2015 17:09:12 -0500http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383975-fact-or-fiction-breaking-down-rgiii-orakpo-and-more-redskins-offseason-rumors
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383975-fact-or-fiction-breaking-down-rgiii-orakpo-and-more-redskins-offseason-rumorshttp://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383975-fact-or-fiction-breaking-down-rgiii-orakpo-and-more-redskins-offseason-rumorsFootballNFLNFC EastWashington RedskinsOpinionNiles Paul: Latest News, Rumors and Speculation Surrounding Free-Agent TE Adam Wells<p class="ui-droppable"><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt="">After spending the first four years of his career in Washington, tight end <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/niles-paul">Niles Paul</a> picked a good time to hit free agency. The 25-year-old is coming off of a career year with 39 catches for 507 yards and should command a solid contract.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Continue for updates.&nbsp;</p><hr><h2><span>Falcons Likely to Express Interest in Paul<br></span></h2><h4><strong>Tuesday, March 3</strong></h4><p>Vaughn McClure of ESPN.com <a href="http://espn.go.com/blog/nflnation/post/_/id/162788/tight-end-niles-paul-will-be-on-falcons-radar">reported</a> the Atlanta Falcons are likely to express interest in Paul. He added the following details:</p><blockquote>
<p>It's a safe bet the Falcons will express interest in tight end Niles Paul, if Paul is not re-signed before then. The 6-foot-1, 245-pound Paul is one of several tight ends headed for free agency who has played in Falcons offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan's scheme. The others include Jordan Cameron of the Cleveland Browns and Owen Daniels of the Baltimore Ravens. Cameron has had concussion issues, while Daniels will turn 33 during the 2015 season.</p>
<p>Paul, who turns 26 in August, wouldn't be a flashy pickup, but the Falcons aren't expected to invest heavily in a top tight end, such as Denver's Julius Thomas. However, Paul, a former fifth-round draft pick who just completed his fourth <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/nfl">NFL</a> season, would be more than capable of playing his role.</p>
</blockquote><p>Paul's breakout season largely came as the result of injuries to Jordan Reed, who only appeared in 11 games with two starts.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Sometimes, though, all a player needs is an opportunity. There are limitations to Paul's game that detract from his value. He's never been a starter for an entire season in the NFL. Last year, despite appearing in all 16 games, the former Nebraska star only started seven times.&nbsp;</p><p>Washington also faces a conundrum with Scot McCloughan taking over as general manager. He has no ties to any of the players from the previous regime, so Paul's tape will have to be enough to impress the new leader.&nbsp;</p><p><a href="http://www.csnwashington.com/redskinsblog/should-redskins-re-sign-te-niles-paul" target="_blank">Rich Tandler</a> of Comcast SportsNet Washington did note that Paul may not fit the mold of what McCloughan looks for in a tight end:</p><blockquote><p><span>McCloughan has expressed a preference for bigger players, not only on the line but in most positions on the field. Paul is a converted wide receiver and while he&rsquo;s put on some pounds in the weight room since the position change after his rookie 2011 season he&rsquo;s still on the small side for his position at 6-1, 241.&nbsp;</span><span>And we could see how important special teams are to McCloughan. Paul has been one of the team&rsquo;s leaders on the kicking units and if he doesn&rsquo;t return he&rsquo;d have to be replaced in that role.</span></p></blockquote><p><span>Rick Snider of&nbsp;<em>The Washington Post</em> speculated at the end of the regular season that Paul may want a bigger deal than Washington is willing to make:</span></p><p><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt=""></p><p><span>Despite being on the small side for a tight end, Paul does have big-play capabilities with seven of his 39 catches going for at least 20 yards. His 13.0 yards per reception ranked fourth among all qualified tight ends in 2014, per&nbsp;<a href="http://espn.go.com/nfl/statistics/player/_/stat/receiving/sort/yardsPerReception/count/41" target="_blank">ESPN.com</a>.</span></p><p><span>More teams understand the value of having a quality tight end in the middle of the field who can serve as a safety net for the quarterback. Paul has shown at times he can be that player, while adding a different dimension downfield.&nbsp;</span></p><p><span>Given the market for tight ends this offseason, Paul doesn't figure to be at the top of anyone's wish list due to limited exposure. He has age and upside on his side, which could help turn him into one of the bigger bargains this offseason.&nbsp;</span></p><p>Read more <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/nfl" title="NFL analysis, news and photos">NFL</a> news on BleacherReport.com</p>Tue, 03 Mar 2015 16:59:34 -0500http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2355405-niles-paul-latest-news-rumors-and-speculation-surrounding-free-agent-te
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2355405-niles-paul-latest-news-rumors-and-speculation-surrounding-free-agent-tehttp://bleacherreport.com/articles/2355405-niles-paul-latest-news-rumors-and-speculation-surrounding-free-agent-teNFLBreaking NewsNiles PaulBrowns, Raiders, Eagles Among Best Landing Spots for Free-Agent WR Jeremy MaclinTeam Stream Now<p><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt=""></p>
<p class="ui-droppable"><a href="http://bleacherreport.com/jeremy-maclin">Jeremy <span class="spellcheck">Maclin</span></a>&nbsp;will hit free agency in 2015 after an impressive 2014 season, in which he caught 10 touchdown passes.&nbsp;</p>
<p class="ui-droppable">Where are his likely landing spots? Which teams could break the bank for <span class="spellcheck">Maclin</span>?</p>
<p class="ui-droppable">Watch as <a href="http://www.twitter.com/stephen__nelson">Stephen Nelson</a> and Bleacher Report NFL Analyst Chris <span class="spellcheck">Simms</span> discuss <span class="spellcheck">Maclin</span>'s NFL future in the video above.&nbsp;</p><p>Read more <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/nfl" title="NFL analysis, news and photos">NFL</a> news on BleacherReport.com</p>Tue, 03 Mar 2015 16:42:54 -0500http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383947-browns-raiders-eagles-among-best-landing-spots-for-free-agent-wr-jeremy-maclin
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383947-browns-raiders-eagles-among-best-landing-spots-for-free-agent-wr-jeremy-maclinhttp://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383947-browns-raiders-eagles-among-best-landing-spots-for-free-agent-wr-jeremy-maclinNFLOpinionJets, Raiders and Patriots Among Top Landing Spots for Free Agent Darrelle RevisTeam Stream Now<p><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt=""></p>
<p class="ui-droppable">New England Patriots cornerback Darrelle Revis could become a free agent if he doesn't work out a deal with his current team.</p>
<p class="ui-droppable">Where are some landing spots for Revis? Is there a chance he leaves the Patriots? Could he come back to the Jets?</p>
<p class="ui-droppable">Watch as Stephen Nelson and Bleacher Report NFL Analyst Chris <span class="spellcheck">Simms</span> discuss landing spots for Revis in the video above.</p><p>Read more <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/nfl" title="NFL analysis, news and photos">NFL</a> news on BleacherReport.com</p>Tue, 03 Mar 2015 16:21:02 -0500http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383925-jets-raiders-and-patriots-among-top-landing-spots-for-free-agent-darrelle-revis
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383925-jets-raiders-and-patriots-among-top-landing-spots-for-free-agent-darrelle-revishttp://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383925-jets-raiders-and-patriots-among-top-landing-spots-for-free-agent-darrelle-revisNFLOpinionTeam Stream NowJameis Winston Interviews with Buccaneers: Latest Details and ReactionTyler Conway<p class="ui-droppable"><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt="">Projected No. 1 overall pick <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/jameis-winston">Jameis Winston</a> got a glimpse of his next potential football home this week, visiting with Buccaneers brass in Tampa Bay. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p class="ui-droppable">Scott Smith of the team's official website <a href="http://www.buccaneers.com/news/article-smith/Jameis-Winston-Visits-With-Buccaneers/e785c2be-c432-41d5-b188-bf0ea5a89f5f">confirmed</a> the visit and provided comments from Winston:</p><blockquote><p class="ui-droppable">Being able to play three years in Florida, I would love to stay here in this great state. I've just got to take advantage of this blessing. It's not really important to me to be the first pick, but it is important to me to <em>be</em> picked. I believe that I have been blessed during my years at Florida State to win a national championship and just be a winning quarterback. And I believe this place &ndash; I would love to be here.</p></blockquote><p>According to <a href="http://espn.go.com/nfl/draft2015/story/_/id/12413075/jameis-winston-visiting-tampa-bay-buccaneers?utm_source=feedburner&amp;utm_medium=twitter&amp;utm_campaign=Feed%3A+go%2FIpBn+%28ESPN.com%29">ESPN's Adam Schefter</a>, Winston arrived in Tampa on Monday and will leave Wednesday. He is expected to meet with team ownership and other officials, while <a href="https://twitter.com/NFLSTROUD/status/572789202233896960">Rick Stroud of the&nbsp;</a><em><a href="https://twitter.com/NFLSTROUD/status/572789202233896960">Tampa Bay Times</a>&nbsp;</em>noted that veteran leaders will also sit down with Winston to get a general impression of how he'd fit in the locker room.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>The Buccaneers are expected to have a similar meeting with Oregon's Marcus Mariota, per <a href="https://twitter.com/Edwerderespn/status/572808423596670976">ESPN's Ed Werder</a>. Mariota and Winston are largely viewed as the most likely players to go No. 1 overall in April, though opinions widely differ about who will be the better long-term option.&nbsp;</p><p><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt=""></p><p>Winston, who led Florida State to a national championship in 2013 while winning the Heisman Trophy, is considered the safer, more traditional pick from a skills standpoint. Mariota, a three-year star at Oregon who won his Heisman last season, offers more in the way of running ability and comes with a clean off-the-field record.</p><p>Schefter's report indicates Winston's schedule, rather than any other reason, dictated that the visit be in March. Typically, teams do not meet with potential draft choices this early in the process&mdash;especially this high in the selection order.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><em>Follow Tyler Conway (<a href="https://twitter.com/tylerconway22">@tylerconway22</a>) on Twitter.</em></p><p>Read more <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/nfl" title="NFL analysis, news and photos">NFL</a> news on BleacherReport.com</p>Tue, 03 Mar 2015 16:12:19 -0500http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383863-jameis-winston-interviews-with-buccaneers-latest-details-and-reaction
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383863-jameis-winston-interviews-with-buccaneers-latest-details-and-reactionhttp://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383863-jameis-winston-interviews-with-buccaneers-latest-details-and-reactionNFL DraftFootballNFLBreaking NewsJameis Winston2015 NFL DraftMarques Colston Contract: Latest News, Rumors Surrounding Saints WRScott Polacek<p class="ui-droppable"><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif">After spending his entire career as a member of the <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/new-orleans-saints">New Orleans Saints</a>, wide receiver Marques Colston&rsquo;s immediate future is a storyline to follow this offseason. Speculation surrounding his contract has arisen.</p>
<p>Continue for updates.</p>
<hr><h2>Saints Beat Writer: New Orleans May Restructure Deal</h2>
<h4>Tuesday, March 3</h4>
<p>According to <a href="https://twitter.com/nick_underhill/status/572860021521850368" target="_blank">Nick Underhill of <em>The New Orleans Advocate </em></a>(and Adam Schefter of ESPN), the Saints are looking to restructure Colston&rsquo;s deal. Underhill and Schefter <a href="https://twitter.com/nick_underhill/status/572860436401373184" target="_blank">also noted</a> that releasing the veteran receiver is an unlikely outcome.</p>
<p>Colston failed to reach 1,000 receiving yards in either the 2013 or 2014 season after doing so in six of the first seven years of his career. However, he still topped 900 yards in both campaigns and was a critical component in the New Orleans passing attack that finished third in the league in yards per game in 2014.</p>
<img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif"><p>Colston will be 32 years old during the 2015 season, although he likely still has a couple more productive seasons in the tank given his recent performance. The Saints certainly hope so if they bring him back.</p><p>Read more <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/nfl" title="NFL analysis, news and photos">NFL</a> news on BleacherReport.com</p>Tue, 03 Mar 2015 16:10:17 -0500http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383913-marques-colston-contract-latest-news-rumors-surrounding-saints-wr
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383913-marques-colston-contract-latest-news-rumors-surrounding-saints-wrhttp://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383913-marques-colston-contract-latest-news-rumors-surrounding-saints-wrFootballNFLNFC SouthNew Orleans SaintsBreaking NewsFact or Fiction: Breaking Down Cobb, Suh and More Raiders 2015 Offseason RumorsTeam Stream Now<p><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt=""></p>
<p class="ui-droppable">The <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/oakland-raiders">Oakland Raiders</a> have a lot of needs to address this offseason<span>&mdash;and</span>&nbsp;a lot of money to spend.</p>
<p class="ui-droppable">Will the Raiders go all-in on <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/randall-cobb">Randall Cobb</a>? Will they go after <span class="spellcheck">Ndamukong</span> <span class="spellcheck">Suh</span>?</p>
<p class="ui-droppable">Watch as Adam <span class="spellcheck">Lefkoe</span> and Bleacher Report NFL Analyst Chris <span class="spellcheck">Simms</span> discuss the Raiders' offseason in the video above.</p><p>Read more <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/nfl" title="NFL analysis, news and photos">NFL</a> news on BleacherReport.com</p>Tue, 03 Mar 2015 16:03:15 -0500http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383903-fact-or-fiction-breaking-down-cobb-suh-more-raiders-2015-offseason-rumors
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383903-fact-or-fiction-breaking-down-cobb-suh-more-raiders-2015-offseason-rumorshttp://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383903-fact-or-fiction-breaking-down-cobb-suh-more-raiders-2015-offseason-rumorsFootballNFLAFC WestOakland RaidersOpinionNFL Discusses Rules, Requirements of a Catch: Latest Comments and ReactionScott Polacek<p class="ui-droppable"><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt="">Dallas Cowboys fans will probably be thrilled to know that the <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/nfl">NFL</a> is at least discussing the vague rules about what constitutes a catch on the field long after <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/dez-bryant">Dez Bryant</a>&rsquo;s attempt in the playoffs against the Green Bay Packers was ruled an incomplete pass.</p>
<p>Troy Vincent, former cornerback (most notably for the Philadelphia Eagles) and current Executive Vice President of NFL Football Operations, noted that there was plenty of discussion Tuesday:</p>
<p><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt=""><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt=""><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt=""></p>
<p>It would certainly benefit the players, officials and fans watching to have a clear understanding of what a catch is during the course of the game. It may seem simple, but the Bryant play highlighted just how vague and difficult some of the nuances of the rule were to understand, so this is progress.</p>
<p>As Vincent mentioned, even the advance of slow-motion replay only served as another source of confusion on close plays.</p>
<p>Ideally, any changes that come from these discussions will make something as straightforward as whether a receiver made the catch or not actually straightforward.</p><p>Read more <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/nfl" title="NFL analysis, news and photos">NFL</a> news on BleacherReport.com</p>Tue, 03 Mar 2015 15:53:29 -0500http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383860-nfl-discusses-rules-requirements-of-a-catch-latest-comments-and-reaction
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383860-nfl-discusses-rules-requirements-of-a-catch-latest-comments-and-reactionhttp://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383860-nfl-discusses-rules-requirements-of-a-catch-latest-comments-and-reactionNFLBreaking NewsMonster Nose Tackle Headlines Green Bay Packers' 2015 Free Agency Big BoardTeam Stream Now<p><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt=""></p>
<p class="ui-droppable">The <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/green-bay-packers">Green Bay Packers</a> enter the 2015 <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/nfl">NFL</a> free agency looking to improve their roster after reaching the NFC Championship in 2014.&nbsp;</p>
<p class="ui-droppable">Which players do the Packers need to target? Who could help propel them to another playoff berth?&nbsp;</p>
<p class="ui-droppable">Watch as <a href="http://www.twitter.com/adamlefkoe">Adam <span class="spellcheck">Lefkoe</span></a> and Bleacher Report NFL Analyst Chris <span class="spellcheck">Simms</span> discuss NFL free agency in the video above.&nbsp;</p><p>Read more <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/nfl" title="NFL analysis, news and photos">NFL</a> news on BleacherReport.com</p>Tue, 03 Mar 2015 15:36:13 -0500http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383834-monster-nose-tackle-headlines-green-bay-packers-2015-free-agency-big-board
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383834-monster-nose-tackle-headlines-green-bay-packers-2015-free-agency-big-boardhttp://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383834-monster-nose-tackle-headlines-green-bay-packers-2015-free-agency-big-boardFootballNFLNFC NorthGreen Bay PackersOpinionTeam Stream NowMajor Moves Dolphins Must Make to Create 'Dominant' Defense with Ndamukong SuhTeam Stream Now<p><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt=""></p>
<p class="ui-droppable">The <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/miami-dolphins">Miami Dolphins</a> could be the favorite to land free agent defensive tackle <span class="spellcheck">Ndamukong</span> <span class="spellcheck">Suh</span> according to multiple reports<span>&mdash;</span>including this one from <a href="http://espn.go.com/blog/afceast/post/_/id/75404/former-nfl-gm-mark-dominik-says-dolphins-have-shot-at-ndamukong-suh" target="_blank">ESPN</a>.</p>
<p class="ui-droppable">How much of an impact would <span class="spellcheck">Suh</span> have on the Dolphins defense? Should Miami break the bank to land <span class="spellcheck">Suh</span>?</p>
<p class="ui-droppable">Watch as Adam <span class="spellcheck">Lefkoe</span> and Bleacher Report NFL Analyst Chris <span class="spellcheck">Simms</span> discuss the possibility of <span class="spellcheck">Suh</span> in Miami in the video above.</p><p>Read more <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/nfl" title="NFL analysis, news and photos">NFL</a> news on BleacherReport.com</p>Tue, 03 Mar 2015 15:35:56 -0500http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383837-major-moves-dolphins-must-make-to-create-dominant-defense-with-ndamukong-suh
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383837-major-moves-dolphins-must-make-to-create-dominant-defense-with-ndamukong-suhhttp://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383837-major-moves-dolphins-must-make-to-create-dominant-defense-with-ndamukong-suhFootballNFLAFC EastMiami DolphinsOpinionNdamukong SuhPower Ranking the Top 2015 NFL Free-Agents Who Eluded the Franchise Tag Team Stream Now<p><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt=""></p>
<p class="ui-droppable">Heading into 2015 <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/nfl">NFL</a> free agency there are still plenty of superstar free agents who avoided getting franchise-tagged.</p>
<p class="ui-droppable">Which players can make the biggest impact next year? Who was fortunate to avoid getting tagged?</p>
<p class="ui-droppable">Watch as <a href="http://www.twitter.com/adamlefkoe">Adam <span class="spellcheck">Lefkoe</span></a> and Bleacher Report NFL Analyst <a href="http://www.twitter.com/csimmsQB">Chris <span class="spellcheck">Simms</span></a> discuss 2015 NFL free agency in the video above.&nbsp;</p>
<p class="ui-droppable">&nbsp;</p><p>Read more <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/nfl" title="NFL analysis, news and photos">NFL</a> news on BleacherReport.com</p>Tue, 03 Mar 2015 15:04:47 -0500http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383793-power-ranking-the-top-2015-nfl-free-agents-who-eluded-the-franchise-tag
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383793-power-ranking-the-top-2015-nfl-free-agents-who-eluded-the-franchise-taghttp://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383793-power-ranking-the-top-2015-nfl-free-agents-who-eluded-the-franchise-tagNFLOpinionTeam Stream NowBrowns, Colts and Cowboys Among Top Landing Spots for Free Agent DeMarco MurrayTeam Stream Now<p><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt=""></p>
<p class="ui-droppable">Running back <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/demarco-murray"><span class="spellcheck">DeMarco</span> Murray</a> is set to become a free agent.</p>
<p class="ui-droppable">Where are potential landing spots for Murray? Could he end up back with the Cowboys?</p>
<p class="ui-droppable">Watch as Adam <span class="spellcheck">Lefkoe</span> and Bleacher Report NFL Analyst Chris <span class="spellcheck">Simms</span> discuss Murray's landing spots in the video above.</p><p>Read more <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/nfl" title="NFL analysis, news and photos">NFL</a> news on BleacherReport.com</p>Tue, 03 Mar 2015 15:01:04 -0500http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383723-browns-colts-and-cowboys-among-top-landing-spots-for-free-agent-demarco-murray
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383723-browns-colts-and-cowboys-among-top-landing-spots-for-free-agent-demarco-murrayhttp://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383723-browns-colts-and-cowboys-among-top-landing-spots-for-free-agent-demarco-murrayNFLOpinionDeMarco MurrayCorey Grant, Auburn RB, Says He Ran Official 4.26 40-Yard Dash at Tigers Pro DayMike Chiari<p class="ui-droppable"><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt="">Corey Grant didn't receive much hype as an <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/nfl">NFL</a> prospect following the 2014 season at Auburn, but the running back dazzled scouts with his blazing speed at the Tigers pro day Tuesday. &nbsp;</p>
<p>According to Knox Bardeen of FoxSports.com, the Opelika, Alabama, native was told he ran the 40-yard dash in an impressive 4.26 seconds:</p>
<p><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt=""></p>
<p>Here is video of Grant's awesome feat, courtesy of WRBL<span>.com's&nbsp;</span>Dayne Young:</p>
<p><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt=""></p>
<p>Grant was not invited to last month's NFL Scouting Combine, but he would have been the fastest prospect there, as UAB wide receiver J.J. Nelson paced the 40 in Indianapolis with a time of 4.28 seconds, per <a href="http://www.nfl.com/combine/tracker">NFL.com</a>.</p>
<p>Despite his speed, Grant was largely utilized as a complementary rusher at Auburn. He carried the ball just 135 times during his career, but he made the most of those touches. He averaged 6.1 yards per carry in 2014, but even more impressively, he churned out nearly 10 yards per tote in 2013, as he racked up 647 yards.</p>
<p>While Grant was certainly effective, he is unheralded at the same time. That is evidenced by the NFL Network's Ian Rapoport's reaction to the news of his 40-yard dash performance:</p>
<p><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt=""></p>
<p>During the lead-up to Auburn's pro day, Grant talked about his goal of surprising observers by getting selected in the draft earlier than expected, according to <a href="http://www.montgomeryadvertiser.com/story/sports/college/auburn/2015/01/21/grant-taking-different-route-realize-nfl-dreams/22131155/">Duane Rankin</a> of&nbsp;<em>The Montgomery Advertiser</em>:&nbsp;"You've probably seen over the past years some guys slip up in the draft and you're like, 'Where did they come from? Who are they?' Hopefully this year, maybe I can be one of those guys."</p>
<p><span>Grant may have been the best-kept secret in the 2015 NFL draft class, but that is no longer the case after what happened Tuesday.</span></p>
<p><span>Talent evaluators are well aware of his name at this point, but there is no guarantee that elite, straight-line speed will equate to favorable draft positioning.</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><em>Follow <a href="https://twitter.com/MikeChiari">@MikeChiari</a> on Twitter.</em></p><p>Read more <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/nfl" title="NFL analysis, news and photos">NFL</a> news on BleacherReport.com</p>Tue, 03 Mar 2015 14:55:26 -0500http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383753-corey-grant-auburn-rb-says-he-ran-official-426-40-yard-dash-at-tigers-pro-day
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383753-corey-grant-auburn-rb-says-he-ran-official-426-40-yard-dash-at-tigers-pro-dayhttp://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383753-corey-grant-auburn-rb-says-he-ran-official-426-40-yard-dash-at-tigers-pro-dayNFL DraftFootballNFLBreaking News2015 NFL DraftAtlanta Falcons New Stadium: Latest Details, Photos, CommentsTimothy Rapp<p class="ui-droppable"><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt="">The <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/atlanta-falcons">Atlanta Falcons</a> have released new photos showing the construction progress of their new stadium as the team and its fans continue to look forward to their new digs.</p>
<p>New Atlanta Stadium on Twitter shared the following:</p>
<p><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt=""></p>
<p>Meanwhile, in January the team posted the following video highlighting the stadium's location and the various features it will boast upon completion.</p>
<p><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt=""></p>
<p>According to <a href="http://newstadium.atlantafalcons.com/overview/">the team's website</a>, the new stadium can be expanded to either a capacity&nbsp;<span>75,000 or even 83,000, depending on the size of the event. The stadium will have a retractable roof, allowing a floor-to-roof window in the northeast corner the stadium that will allow natural sunlight in and give fans a view of the skyline.</span></p>
<p><span>The stadium will also feature a 58-foot tall, 360-degree high definition video halo board, a 100-yard bar on the third concourse that stretches the length of the field and a technology lounge, along with the standard club seating and suites that have become so popular in modern stadiums.</span></p>
<p><span>The team has also partnered with IBM on the project.</span></p>
<p><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt=""></p>
<p><span>It's an ambitious undertaking, but both fans and the team have to be thrilled with the plans being drawn up and the aspirations for the new building. Atlanta's new <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/nfl">NFL</a> and MLS stadium has all the makings of being a world-class venue.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="https://twitter.com/TRappaRT" target="_blank"><img src="http://twitter-badges.s3.amazonaws.com/follow_me-c.png" alt="Follow TRappaRT on Twitter"></a></p><p>Read more <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/nfl" title="NFL analysis, news and photos">NFL</a> news on BleacherReport.com</p>Tue, 03 Mar 2015 14:44:53 -0500http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383748-atlanta-falcons-new-stadium-latest-details-photos-comments
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383748-atlanta-falcons-new-stadium-latest-details-photos-commentshttp://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383748-atlanta-falcons-new-stadium-latest-details-photos-commentsFootballNFLNFC SouthAtlanta FalconsBreaking NewsSan Francisco 49ers' Final Free-Agency Outlook and PredictionsGrant Cohn<p>What do we really know about the <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/san-francisco-49ers">San Francisco 49ers</a> post-Jim Harbaugh?</p>
<p>What do we really know about the new coaches? We know their names&mdash;Jim <span class="spellcheck">Tomsula</span> (the head coach), Eric Mangini (the defensive coordinator) and <span class="spellcheck">Geep</span> <span class="spellcheck">Chryst</span> (the offensive coordinator). We don&rsquo;t know what type of offense they intend to run or what type of blocking scheme they intend to teach or what players they intend to feature.</p>
<p>But we do know general manger Trent <span class="spellcheck">Baalke</span>. We understand his vision for building a team. We&rsquo;<span class="spellcheck">ve</span> watched him work since 2010, and we know his tendencies. We know the moves he likes to make, sometimes moves other general managers might be afraid to try.</p>
<p>Based on all we know about <span class="spellcheck">Baalke</span> and the little we know about his new coaching staff, here&rsquo;s a prediction of what the 49ers will do in free agency.</p><p><a href="http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383688-san-francisco-49ers-final-free-agency-outlook-and-predictions">Begin Slideshow</a></p>Tue, 03 Mar 2015 14:38:40 -0500http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383688-san-francisco-49ers-final-free-agency-outlook-and-predictions
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383688-san-francisco-49ers-final-free-agency-outlook-and-predictionshttp://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383688-san-francisco-49ers-final-free-agency-outlook-and-predictionsFootballNFLNFC WestSan Francisco 49ersNFL Free AgencyOpinionRaiders, Colts and Eagles Among Best Landing Spots for Sack Artist Greg HardyTeam Stream Now<img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif"><p class="ui-droppable"><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt=""></p><p class="ui-droppable">Greg Hardy still remains on the commissioner's exempt list but is primed to make big money in free agency if he is removed from the list.</p><p class="ui-droppable">Which teams are most likely to target Hardy? Where is his playing style best suited?</p><p class="ui-droppable">Watch as <a href="http://www.twitter.com/adamlefkoe">Adam <span class="spellcheck">Lefkoe</span></a> and Bleacher Report NFL Analyst&nbsp;<a href="http://www.twitter.com/csimmsQB">Chris <span class="spellcheck">Simms</span></a> discuss Hardy's future in the video above.&nbsp;</p><p>Read more <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/nfl" title="NFL analysis, news and photos">NFL</a> news on BleacherReport.com</p>Tue, 03 Mar 2015 14:23:44 -0500http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383730-raiders-colts-and-eagles-among-best-landing-spots-for-sack-artist-greg-hardy
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383730-raiders-colts-and-eagles-among-best-landing-spots-for-sack-artist-greg-hardyhttp://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383730-raiders-colts-and-eagles-among-best-landing-spots-for-sack-artist-greg-hardyNFLOpinionThe 3 Mistakes NFL Teams Can Avoid to Prevent a Disaster in 2015 Free AgencyTeam Stream Now<p><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt=""></p>
<p class="ui-droppable"><a href="http://bleacherreport.com/nfl">NFL</a> fans are excited to see what additions their teams make in 2015 free agency, but there are many reasons to be cautious.&nbsp;</p>
<p class="ui-droppable">What can teams learn from last year? Where should money be spent more wisely?</p>
<p class="ui-droppable">Watch as <a href="http://www.twitter.com/adamlefkoe">Adam <span class="spellcheck">Lefkoe</span></a>&nbsp;and Bleacher Report NFL Analyst <a href="http://www.twitter.com/csimmsQB">Chris <span class="spellcheck">Simms</span></a> discuss NFL free agency in the video above.&nbsp;</p><p>Read more <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/nfl" title="NFL analysis, news and photos">NFL</a> news on BleacherReport.com</p>Tue, 03 Mar 2015 14:04:42 -0500http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383650-the-3-mistakes-nfl-teams-can-avoid-to-prevent-a-disaster-in-2015-free-agency
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383650-the-3-mistakes-nfl-teams-can-avoid-to-prevent-a-disaster-in-2015-free-agencyhttp://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383650-the-3-mistakes-nfl-teams-can-avoid-to-prevent-a-disaster-in-2015-free-agencyNFLOpinion2015 NFL Mock Draft: Predictions for Top Prospects Heading into Pro DaysNate Loop<p class="ui-droppable"><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt="">If the <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/nfl">NFL</a> combine didn't leave draft junkies with enough numbers, film and media takes to analyze, have no fear: The pro days are here.<br><br>The likes of Virginia, Minnesota, Tennessee-Chattanooga and Wake Forest kicked off the March gauntlet on Monday, bringing the draft back into focus after a brief lull following the combine. With big-time programs such as Clemson, Ole Miss and Arizona State set to unleash their best football prospects in just the first week of action, the NFL draft chatter is only going to ratchet up, not subside.<br><br><a href="http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000471580/article/2015-pro-days-schedule">NFL.com</a> has a nifty schedule for pro-day aficionados to follow, complete with updates as each day concludes. While many players' pro prospects are likely to change in the coming days and weeks, now is as good a time as any to make some predictions on where the top players currently stand.<br><br>Here's a look at a first-round mock as the pro-day frenzy begins.<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><br></strong></span></p>
<p><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt=""></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><span><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Players with Something to Prove at Early Pro Days</strong></span><br><br></span><span>While the likes of Virginia's&nbsp;</span><a href="http://www.richmond.com/sports/college/football/article_9c82d3ec-b187-5021-a7f7-5b5a6fa478f2.html">Eli Harold</a>&nbsp;<span>and Minnesota's&nbsp;</span><a href="http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000475854/article/maxx-williams-pro-day-proved-my-combine-wasnt-a-fluke"><span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck">Maxx</span></span></span> Williams&nbsp;</a><span>have already put together impressive pro-day performances to back up their combine showings, they're just two of the elite prospects who have been bandied about by the media for quite some time. Both can and should get drafted in the first round.</span><br><br>The pro days are a fine time for fans to get acquainted with the players who might be on the fringes of the first or second round and an even better opportunity for scouts to unearth hidden gems who might be available in the later rounds of the draft. There are also plenty of big-name players who dazzled in college but haven't yet received much attention in the draft cycle.&nbsp;<br><br>With that in mind, let's take a quick look at a few of the top prospects with something to prove at the early pro days.</p>
<p><br><strong>March 4: Trey Flowers, DE, Arkansas</strong></p>
<p><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt=""></p>
<p>Mississippi State's Preston Smith certainly <a href="http://www.nbcdfw.com/blogs/blue-star/Kiper-MSUs-Preston-Smith-Could-Be-Intriguing-for-Dallas-294243661.html">turned heads </a>at the NFL combine, but there is another defensive end set to go to work on Wednesday hoping to catch scouts' attention.<br><br>Trey Flowers is a bit of an enigma at defensive end, mainly owing to his less than ideal 6'2", 266-pound frame. The dreaded "tweener" label has killed many a draft prospect's stock, but Flowers will be hoping to break the mold with a strong performance at Arkansas' pro day.<br><br>The Razorbacks proved to be one of the scrappiest teams in the SEC last season, due in no small part to the efforts of players such as Flowers. He racked up 68 total tackles (15.5 for loss), six sacks and six pass deflections in 2014. Those stats are impressive and show Flowers is a workhorse player, but he hasn't drawn the same amount of attention as other top-tier defensive ends due to his lack of explosiveness on the pass rush.&nbsp;<strong><br></strong></p>
<p><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt=""></p>
<p>Flowers will certainly have to answer questions about his ability to collapse the pocket and run the circle at the next level, but NFL teams looking for a committed, versatile prospect might want to pay close attention to Flowers, who prides himself on defending the run, per Drew <span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck">Davison</span></span></span> of the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.star-telegram.com/sports/nfl/article10555292.html"><em>Forth Worth Star-Telegram</em></a>:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>Just playing in the SEC, one of the big-time conferences, playing defensive end at that level, you have to be a dominant run stopper. It&rsquo;s a running league. You got the <span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck">Alabamas</span></span></span>, the <span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck">LSUs</span></span></span>, the big-time running offenses, so just to be able to be a dominant defense, you&rsquo;<span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck">ve</span></span></span> got to be able to stop the run. So that&rsquo;s one of the things I pride myself in. One of the most memorable moments would be the shutouts against LSU and Ole Miss and the Texas Bowl, just holding [the University of Texas] to 59 yards total. Just being that dominant defense and knowing you were a part of that is big-time.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>With so many defensive end prospects lauded for their abilities to get to the quarterback, Flowers might be able to carve out a space in the second round as an edge-rusher who can play both the run and the pass.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>March 5: <span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck">Ameer</span></span></span> <span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck">Abdullah</span></span></span>, RB, Nebraska</strong></p>
<p><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt=""></p>
<p>In the pass-happy NFL, running backs have taken a hit as a group when it comes to the draft. Injuries are common, the window for productivity is short with the dreaded 30-year-old barrier, and a good offensive line can make some running backs seem completely interchangeable.&nbsp;<br><br>While Georgia's Todd <span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck">Gurley</span></span></span> and Wisconsin's Melvin Gordon have drawn plenty of attention for their potential to break into the first round, the conversations regarding other running back prospects have fallen by the wayside.&nbsp;<br><br>Nebraska's <span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck">Ameer</span></span></span> <span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck">Abdullah</span></span></span> put in a fine 2014 campaign, rushing for 1,610 yards and 19 touchdowns on a robust average of 6.1 yards per carry. However, his <a href="http://www.cfbstats.com/2014/player/463/1040556/rushing/gamelog.html">production slowed</a> as the season went along, a major issue for a running back looking to impress in his final year before the draft. Still, some observers aren't going to soon forget the lightning bug's weaving runs through big-time college defenses from the first half of the season.</p>
<p>NFL.com editor Chris <span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck">Trapasso</span></span></span> likes his ability to make players miss:</p>
<p><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt=""></p>
<p>NFL Draft Geek believes <span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck">Abdullah</span></span></span> compares favorably to St. Louis' <span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck">Tre</span></span></span> Mason, who rushed for 765 yards in 12 games as a rookie:</p>
<p><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt=""></p>
<p><span>At just 5'9", <span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck">Abdullah</span></span></span> will likely have to answer questions about his size and durability. His&nbsp;</span><a href="http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1824308/ameer-abdullah">4.60-second</a><span>&nbsp;40-yard dash at the combine may have scouts concerned about his ability to be a big-play threat at the next level without a bigger frame.</span><br><br>If <span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck">Abdullah</span></span></span> can drop his 40 time and wow scouts at his pro day with his agility, some teams might be willing to ignore those size concerns and start including <span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck">Abdullah</span></span></span> in the same conversations as <span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck">Gurley</span></span></span> and Gordon.<br>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>March 6: Marcus <span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck">Hardison</span></span></span>, <span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck">DT</span></span></span>, Arizona State</strong></p>
<p><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt=""></p>
<p>Of all the mountainous defensive linemen prospects this year, Marcus <span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck">Hardison</span></span></span> could be the biggest sleeper. <span>CBS Sports' has him ranked just outside the top 100 overall prospects.</span>&nbsp;The bullish defensive tackle racked up <a href="http://www.cfbstats.com/2014/player/28/1054214/index.html">10 sacks</a>&nbsp;and 15 tackles for loss in 2014, excellent numbers for a player who often had to work with two offensive linemen in his face on any given play.</p>
<p>As a mauler who can play anywhere along the defensive line, one would think <span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck">Hardison</span></span></span> might be getting more attention this spring. His status as a former junior college player might have kept him from getting on teams' radars, but some media analysts are certainly taking notice.</p>
<p><span><span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck">NEPatriotsDraft</span></span></span>.com's Mike <span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck">Loyko</span></span></span> might be rethinking his initial impressions of <span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck">Hardison</span></span></span>:</span></p>
<p><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt=""></p>
<p><span><span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck">DraftBreakdown</span></span></span>.com's Justin <span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck">Higdon</span></span></span> believes he could surprise some at the next level:</span></p>
<p><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt=""></p>
<p><span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck">Hardison</span></span></span> was unable to participate in on-field drills at the NFL combine, per Alex Espinoza of <a href="http://pac-12.com/article/2015/02/22/2015-nfl-combine-day-3-leonard-williams-makes-case-no-1-pick"><span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck">Pac</span></span></span>-12.com</a>, likely killing some of his draft buzz. As for numbers, he only participated in the 225-pound bench press, putting up a strong&nbsp;<a href="http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/2061036/marcus-hardison">27 reps</a>. His pro day will be crucial for his draft stock, as a poor performance or inability to complete drills could relegate him to the later rounds of the draft.</p><p>Read more <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/nfl" title="NFL analysis, news and photos">NFL</a> news on BleacherReport.com</p>Tue, 03 Mar 2015 14:00:53 -0500http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383173-2015-nfl-mock-draft-predictions-for-top-prospects-heading-into-pro-days
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383173-2015-nfl-mock-draft-predictions-for-top-prospects-heading-into-pro-dayshttp://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383173-2015-nfl-mock-draft-predictions-for-top-prospects-heading-into-pro-daysFootballNFLPreview/Prediction2015 NFL Draft2015 NFL Free Agents: Predicting Destinations for Top Players on MarketTimothy Rapp<p class="ui-droppable"><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt="">This year's free-agent market is stacked with top talents and players who could truly be franchise-changing signings for the organizations that land them. Come next week, the <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/nfl">NFL</a> is going to be absolutely buzzing as the bidding process beings.</p>
<p>But where will the top options end up? Which organizations will splash the cash to land the top players available?&nbsp;</p>
<p>Below, I'll make my predictions.&nbsp;</p>
<p><br><strong><strong>Ndamukong&nbsp;<span class="spellcheck">Suh</span></strong>: Indianapolis Colts</strong></p>
<p><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt=""></p>
<p>Yes, the Colts would have to get creative with their cap to sign a player like&nbsp;Ndamukong&nbsp;<span class="spellcheck">Suh</span>, especially with an <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/andrew-luck">Andrew Luck</a> <span class="spellcheck">megadeal</span> on the horizon. But they could make the money work and seem like a major contender for <span class="spellcheck">Suh</span>'s services.&nbsp;</p>
<p><span class="spellcheck">Suh</span> would give them a nasty, <span class="spellcheck">transformative</span> presence on the defensive line. He would drastically improve a front seven that basically got pushed around by the New England Patriots twice last season. He would give the team a new dynamic against the pass, too, since he generates so much pressure up the middle.</p>
<p>But signing him would also fit the team's aggressive mentality when it comes to making roster moves. The Colts haven't been afraid to make big moves in free agency or through trades to improve this team in an effort to surround Luck with a solid supporting cast sooner rather than later.&nbsp;</p>
<p><span class="spellcheck">Suh</span> would be the culmination of that mentality. The Colts probably aren't the <span class="spellcheck">front-runner</span>s to land <span class="spellcheck">Suh</span> at the moment, but if <span class="spellcheck">Suh</span> not only wants to get paid but also wants to win, heading to Indy would make a ton of sense.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong><a href="http://bleacherreport.com/randall-cobb">Randall Cobb</a>: Oakland Raiders</strong></p>
<p><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt=""></p>
<p>Unless Randall Cobb is willing to take a major hometown discount&mdash;and he might&mdash;he isn't going to be back with the Green Bay Packers. They just don't have the cap space to make him a competitive offer on the market.</p>
<p>The Oakland Raiders do, however, and while Cobb would have to be willing to join a team in rebuilding mode, he would at least be a part of a squad that has the quarterback situation intact with Derek Carr. Plus, if the Raiders are fully committed to surrounding Carr with weapons for next year, they could use the No. 4 pick in the draft to select a wideout such as <span class="spellcheck">Amari</span> Cooper or Kevin White.</p>
<p>That combination of factors will likely make it easier for Cobb to head to a team like Oakland that has a lot of holes to fill before it can compete for the postseason. Well, that and the buckets of cash he'll get for signing with the team.&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong><a href="http://bleacherreport.com/jeremy-maclin">Jeremy <span class="spellcheck">Maclin</span></a>: Philadelphia Eagles</strong></p>
<p><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt=""></p>
<p>Jeremy <span class="spellcheck">Maclin</span> isn't going anywhere. The Philadelphia Eagles have the cap space to offer him a competitive deal on the market, and <span class="spellcheck">Maclin</span> simply isn't going to find an offensive scheme that better suits his talents.</p>
<p>It's pretty clear that both sides want to keep this relationship intact, and <span class="spellcheck">Maclin</span> basically said as much. &nbsp;</p>
<p>"I've always said I want to be here in Philadelphia, but I've also always said I understand it's a business," <span class="spellcheck">Maclin</span> told Les Bowen of the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.philly.com/philly/blogs/dneagles/Maclin-still-optimistic-about-deal-with-Eagles.html"><em>Philadelphia Daily News</em></a>.&nbsp;"Both sides have made it known that we both want each other back, so the rest of it is in God's hands. If it's supposed to happen, it'll happen. I want to be here."</p>
<p>He's not going anywhere, folks. Both sides will likely allow Cobb to set the market in free agency, but <span class="spellcheck">Maclin</span> will be back in Philadelphia.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong><a href="http://bleacherreport.com/demarco-murray"><span class="spellcheck">DeMarco</span> Murray</a>: Dallas Cowboys</strong></p>
<p><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt=""></p>
<p>Another player likely to stay with his current team is <span class="spellcheck">DeMarco</span> Murray. There are a number of factors that will conspire to keep Murray in Dallas.</p>
<ul>
<li>Murray has a pretty good thing going with the team. The Cowboys are a playoff contender and have an excellent offensive line, so staying would be appealing.</li>
<li>NFL teams have really devalued running backs over the years, so Murray likely isn't going to get the huge payday he might expect, especially considering his injury history and the fact that he is coming off of a season where he accumulated a whopping 392 carries. That's a lot of wear and tear, even if Murray is still just 27.</li>
<li>This is a pretty good draft for running backs, highlighted by Melvin Gordon and Todd <span class="spellcheck">Gurley</span>, so teams might be inclined to fill any needs at the position through the draft, not by splashing a ton of cash to secure a veteran option.&nbsp;</li>
</ul><p>Add it all up, and it's easy to see not only why the Cowboys have always had leverage in any Murray dealings but also why he's likely to return to the team unless one team goes a bit crazy with a contract offer the Cowboys simply can't match.</p>
<p>But that seems unlikely.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Devin <span class="spellcheck">McCourty</span>: Philadelphia Eagles</strong></p>
<p><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt=""></p>
<p>The New York Jets are going to be major players for Devin <span class="spellcheck">McCourty,</span> and the New England Patriots likely don't want to lose him either, but the Philadelphia Eagles represent the best of both worlds for <span><span class="spellcheck">McCourty</span></span>.</p>
<p>Unlike the Jets, the Eagles aren't rebuilding and have the foundation of a playoff roster in place. Unlike the Patriots, who may need to absorb a giant cap hit to keep Darrelle Revis around, the Eagles have the sort of cap space to entice him with a big deal. And with the Eagles looking primed to rebuild the secondary through free agency, <span class="spellcheck">McCourty</span> will likely be one of the team's top priorities.&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Julius Thomas: Atlanta Falcons</strong></p>
<p><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt=""></p>
<p>The Atlanta Falcons need way more help on the defensive side of the ball, but they also had a major hole in their offense without Tony Gonzalez holding down the tight end position. Julius Thomas would address that in a major way.</p>
<p>Plus, <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/roddy-white">Roddy White</a> is getting older, so it's not as though the team shouldn't be considering upgrading <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/matt-ryan">Matt Ryan</a>'s weapons in the passing game over the coming years. And Thomas is just 26, meaning he and <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/julio-jones">Julio Jones</a> should form a dominant pair for years to come.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The Falcons have the need, the means and likely the desire, as they don't want to waste the primes of players such as Ryan and Jones. This signing would make a lot of sense.&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="https://twitter.com/TRappaRT" target="_blank"><img src="http://twitter-badges.s3.amazonaws.com/follow_me-c.png" alt="Follow TRappaRT on Twitter"></a></p><p>Read more <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/nfl" title="NFL analysis, news and photos">NFL</a> news on BleacherReport.com</p>Tue, 03 Mar 2015 13:29:12 -0500http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383391-2015-nfl-free-agents-predicting-destinations-for-top-players-on-market
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383391-2015-nfl-free-agents-predicting-destinations-for-top-players-on-markethttp://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383391-2015-nfl-free-agents-predicting-destinations-for-top-players-on-marketNFLOpinionCole Beasley, Cowboys Agree to New Contract: Latest Details, Comments, ReactionTyler Conway<p class="ui-droppable"><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt="">As the <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/dallas-cowboys">Dallas Cowboys</a> continue discussions about how to handle <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/dez-bryant">Dez Bryant</a>'s future with the franchise, they've locked up one of Tony Romo's other favorite targets to a long-term deal. Wideout <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/cole-beasley">Cole Beasley</a> and the Cowboys agreed to a four-year contract Tuesday that could be worth up to $15.1 million.</p>
<p>The wideout confirmed the deal was done to Mike Fisher of Fox Sports:</p>
<p><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt=""></p>
<p>Rand Getlin&nbsp;of Yahoo Sports first reported the news and passed along a full breakdown of the contract:</p>
<p><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt=""><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt=""></p>
<p>Jordan Ross of CowboysHQ.com passed along the wideout's thoughts on playing in Dallas:</p>
<p><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt=""></p>
<p>Bryant offered his congratulations:</p>
<p><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt=""></p>
<p>Beasley, 25, was scheduled to become a restricted free agent on March 10. The former undrafted free agent has spent each of his three <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/nfl">NFL</a> seasons in Dallas, emerging from special teams maven to reliable slot receiver. He made 37 receptions for a career-high 420 yards and four touchdowns in 2014, playing in all 16 games for the first time in his career.</p>
<p>ESPN's Ed Werder highlighted his value:</p>
<p><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt=""></p>
<p>Cowboys executive vice president Stephen Jones said the two sides were eager to find an amenable long-term deal to avoid the restricted free-agent tender process.</p>
<p>"I think Cole's motivated to do it because, you know, if he doesn't get it done he'll have to play out the year with probably a tender and then won't be able to see free agency until next year," Jones said Saturday, per Mark Lane of <a href="http://www.foxsports.com/southwest/story/dallas-cowboys-cole-beasley-jerry-jones-free-agency-stephen-jones-022815">Fox Sports Southwest</a>. "So, hopefully he's motivated to do it. Certainly we're motivated to do it and would like to lock him up."</p>
<p><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt=""></p>
<p>Beasley's signing comes a day after the team used its franchise tag on Bryant, who would have been an unrestricted free agent. <a href="http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000424785/article/cowboys-concerned-about-dez-bryant-off-the-field">Multiple reports</a> dating back to last season have indicated the Cowboys are hesitant to sign Bryant to a huge extension because of off-field issues.</p>
<p>Keeping Beasley won't remove the clouds from the Bryant situation, but it will help assuage concerns about an otherwise mediocre receiving corps. Jason Witten turns 33 in May and is coming off his worst season since he was a rookie.&nbsp;Terrance Williams shows promise as a deep threat but has shown little in the way of consistency.</p>
<p>Beasley is a fine route-runner who can work in the slot and help remove some of the aging Witten's responsibilities underneath. <a href="https://www.profootballfocus.com/data/signature.php?tab=signature&amp;season=2014&amp;pos=wrs&amp;teamid=-1&amp;filter=50&amp;conf=-1&amp;yr=-1&amp;wk=1-2-3-4-5-6-7-8-9-10-11-12-13-14-15-16-17">Pro Football Focus</a> measured Beasley as the fourth-most effective slot receiver in the NFL last season.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><em>Follow Tyler Conway (<a href="https://twitter.com/tylerconway22">@tylerconway22</a>) on Twitter</em></p><p>Read more <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/nfl" title="NFL analysis, news and photos">NFL</a> news on BleacherReport.com</p>Tue, 03 Mar 2015 13:17:39 -0500http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383599-cole-beasley-cowboys-agree-to-new-contract-latest-details-comments-reaction
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383599-cole-beasley-cowboys-agree-to-new-contract-latest-details-comments-reactionhttp://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383599-cole-beasley-cowboys-agree-to-new-contract-latest-details-comments-reactionFootballNFLNFC EastDallas CowboysBreaking NewsCole BeasleyPackers' Approach Will be Put to the Test by Randall CobbZach Kruse<p class="ui-droppable"><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt="">The <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/green-bay-packers">Green Bay Packers</a> are the <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/nfl">NFL</a>'s model draft, develop and retain franchise, but the looming free-agent status of receiver <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/randall-cobb">Randall Cobb</a> looks ready to shake the foundations of general manager Ted Thompson's team-building operation.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The deadline to place the franchise or transition tag on Cobb came and went Monday, leaving the 24-year-old star&mdash;with <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/demaryius-thomas">Demaryius Thomas</a> and <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/dez-bryant">Dez Bryant</a> tagged and out of the picture&mdash;as free agency's most coveted receiver.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The Packers now have exclusive bargaining rights with Cobb through only 4 p.m ET on Saturday, when agents are allowed to begin discussions with other clubs. No deals can be completed during this legal tampering window, but it can be the gateway to agreements once free agency officially opens at 4 p.m ET next Tuesday. &nbsp;</p>
<p><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt=""></p>
<p>Thompson and the Packers have rarely faced an economic decision this complicated.&nbsp;</p>
<p>In a draft-and-develop system, Cobb represents the model player for a second contract. He's young, talented, productive and homegrown. The 64th overall pick in the 2011 draft, Cobb has developed into an asset for the franchise on and off the field.</p>
<p>The Packers manage their salary cap so that deals can be made to retain a player exactly like Cobb. Thompson rarely dips into unrestricted free agency because he firmly believes the fiscally sound strategy is to instead reward his own developed draft picks with long-term deals. The Packers have <a href="https://nflpa.com/public-salary-cap-report" target="_blank">roughly $32 million</a> in cap space, not for Thompson to go on a spending spree in free agency, but for him to provide second contracts for the likes of Randall Cobb or Bryan Bulaga.</p>
<p>Cobb figures to put the Packers' tried-and-true system to the test.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Coming off an injury-shortened 2013 season, Cobb bet on himself in 2014 and hit the jackpot. He played in all 16 regular-season games, catching 91 passes for 1,287 yards and 12 touchdowns. Throw in two postseason games and Cobb's numbers jump to 116 receptions, 1,465 yards and 13 scores. Cobb was eventually awarded a Pro Bowl spot after Bryant withdrew because of injury.&nbsp;</p>
<p>He is now in position to cash in&mdash;and cash in big&mdash;on the open market.&nbsp;</p>
<p><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt=""></p>
<p><a href="http://www.jsonline.com/sports/packers/randall-cobb-bryan-bulaga-set-for-market-after-team-passes-on-tags-b99454002z1-294766221.html" target="_blank">According to Tom Silverstein</a> of the <em>Milwaukee Journal Sentinel</em>, agent Jimmy Sexton let team executives know at the combine that Cobb's asking price was to be in the range of $12 million per year. Earlier indications, as <a href="http://espn.go.com/blog/green-bay-packers/post/_/id/18640/packers-trying-to-get-randall-cobb-signed" target="_blank">reported by Rob Demovsky</a> of ESPN, had Cobb in the area of $9 million.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The franchise tag for receivers in 2015 was a fully guaranteed, one-year sum of $12.823 million.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Giving Cobb the tag made sense for the Packers, if no reason other than keeping Cobb off the market. While he could have signed the one-year tender immediately, Thompson would still have through mid-July to negotiate a long-term deal. Then again, the Packers had no interest in setting Cobb's baseline value at nearly $13 million.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Free from the tag, it now seems likely Cobb will wait out the next few days and get to the open market. There, he will find big spenders such as the <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/oakland-raiders">Oakland Raiders</a> and <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/jacksonville-jaguars">Jacksonville Jaguars</a> ready to open the checkbooks for one of the game's emerging young stars. A bidding war for the game's top available receiver could net him a sizable payday.&nbsp;</p>
<p>That is, of course, if Thompson lets Cobb get to the open market.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Many believed cornerback Sam Shields would test free agency after the Packers declined to give him the franchise tag last spring. And he was certainly well on his way, until Green Bay stepped up to plate in the dying embers of the three-day negotiation window and agreed to a four-year deal worth $39 million to keep Shields off the open market.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The Packers' modus operandi demands that players such as Shields and Cobb are retained as core players, even if that means overpaying. Thompson and vice president of player football administration Russ Ball manage a healthy cap year after year, but the two haven't been averse to paying a little extra to keep in-house free agents. Shields is a top example, but recent deals with A.J. Hawk, Brad Jones and Morgan Burnett show the Packers aren't afraid to spend.&nbsp;</p>
<p><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt=""></p>
<p>Then again, Cobb appears to be a unique case. He's pushing the boundaries of simply "overpaying," and the Packers probably aren't interested in being serious players in a open-ended bidding war. There will be a price where negotiations in Green Bay end, even with a player like Cobb.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Other factors are in play.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The Packers must consider Cobb's role as primarily a slot receiver&mdash;a lesser valued skill set than that of an outside receiver&mdash;and the impact MVP quarterback <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/aaron-rodgers">Aaron Rodgers</a> has had on Cobb's impressive production. It's possible Cobb is nothing more than a very good No. 2 receiver, playing in a perfect system for his abilities and with the ideal quarterback to get him the football.&nbsp;</p>
<p>There's also Thompson's impressive track record of drafting receivers. The Packers have had a number of receivers leave Green Bay, only to be replaced by one of Thompson's draft picks. Green Bay currently has Davante Adams, Jared Abbrederis and Jeff Janis entering their second seasons after being selected by Thompson last May, and the 2015 class of incoming receivers appears to be another deep, talented group. If Cobb leaves, Thompson could dip his hand of Midas back into the receiver pot in two month's time and find a replacement at a fraction of the price.&nbsp;</p>
<p><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt=""></p>
<p>The Packers are also dealing with a salary ceiling of sorts. Last July, <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/jordy-nelson">Jordy Nelson</a> signed a four-year extension worth roughly $9.8 million per season in new money. It is unknown if Thompson and Ball are comfortable giving Cobb a higher average salary than Nelson, the team's top receiver. Nelson is a consummate professional and might not take to heart Cobb making more, but it's a factor nonetheless.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Clearly, the situation is far more complicated&mdash;on both sides of the ledger&mdash;than the Packers simply paying Cobb the money he wants to return to Green Bay.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Thompson has a successful system of acquiring and retaining players in place. It has worked to great effect for the better part of a decade. Cobb appears to be a special case, with a number of moving parts and a price tag that seems to keep going up.&nbsp;</p>
<p>It still seems unfathomable that Thompson and the Packers would let a player like Cobb get away. Losing him would violate their operating procedure. But then again, Cobb looks prepared to push the limits of what Thompson's system can handle.&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><em>Zach Kruse covers the NFC North for Bleacher Report.&nbsp;</em></p>
<p><span class="s1"><a href="https://twitter.com/zachkruse2"><em>Follow @zachkruse2</em></a></span></p><p>Read more <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/nfl" title="NFL analysis, news and photos">NFL</a> news on BleacherReport.com</p>Tue, 03 Mar 2015 12:57:01 -0500http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383359-packers-approach-will-be-put-to-the-test-by-randall-cobb
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383359-packers-approach-will-be-put-to-the-test-by-randall-cobbhttp://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383359-packers-approach-will-be-put-to-the-test-by-randall-cobbFootballNFLNFC NorthGreen Bay PackersOpinionRandall CobbInsider Buzz: Mutual Interest Between Andre Johnson and Indianapolis ColtsTeam Stream Now<img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif"><p class="ui-droppable"><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt=""></p><p class="ui-droppable">Houston Texans wide receiver <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/andre-johnson">Andre Johnson</a>'s future with the team is uncertain at this point as he may be cut or traded, according to John McClain of the <a href="http://blog.chron.com/ultimatetexans/2015/03/texans-star-andre-johnson-asks-to-be-traded-or-cut/"><em>Houston Chronicle</em></a>.</p><p class="ui-droppable">Will the Texans cut Johnson? Where could he end up?</p><p class="ui-droppable">Watch as Stephen Nelson and Bleacher Report NFL Insider Jason Cole discuss Johnson's future in the video above.</p><p>Read more <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/nfl" title="NFL analysis, news and photos">NFL</a> news on BleacherReport.com</p>Tue, 03 Mar 2015 12:47:45 -0500http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383300-insider-buzz-mutual-interest-between-andre-johnson-and-indianapolis-colts
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383300-insider-buzz-mutual-interest-between-andre-johnson-and-indianapolis-coltshttp://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383300-insider-buzz-mutual-interest-between-andre-johnson-and-indianapolis-coltsNFLOpinionCary Williams: Latest News, Rumors and Speculation Surrounding Free-Agent CBTyler Conway<p class="ui-droppable"><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt="">Fresh off of a disappointing two-year stay in Philadelphia, it appears cornerback <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/cary-williams">Cary Williams</a> has interest in going back to the place where he had the most professional success. The news comes on the heels of the <a href="http://www.philadelphiaeagles.com/news/article-1/Eagles-Release-Cornerback-Cary-Williams/eeb8184e-c6da-4d79-829e-4b7840c5dc29">team announcing</a>&nbsp;his release Tuesday.</p>
<p>Continue for updates. &nbsp;</p>
<hr><h2>Williams Interested in Ravens Reunion</h2>
<h4>Tuesday, March 3</h4>
<p>Aaron Wilson of&nbsp;<em>The Baltimore Sun</em> reported Williams has "strong interest" in returning to the Baltimore Ravens in free agency:</p>
<p><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt=""></p>
<p>Williams, 30, spent parts of four seasons with the Ravens from 2009 to 2012. A former seventh-round choice picked up in free agency mostly to help on special teams, Williams slowly emerged as an integral part of Baltimore's secondary. He appeared in all 32 games, starting 27, over his final two years with the team.</p>
<p>In 2012, he had 75 tackles and four interceptions, breaking a more than three-year drought of failing to pick off a pass.</p>
<p>The Eagles signed Williams to a <a href="http://www.spotrac.com/nfl/philadelphia-eagles/cary-williams/">three-year, $17 million</a> deal after that campaign, but he struggled to make an impact. While he made five interceptions and started all 32 games in his two years, Williams was <a href="http://www.delawareonline.com/story/sports/nfl/eagles/2014/10/14/eagles-cornerbacks-shut-giants-critics/17259257/">derided in Philadelphia</a> for his sporadically effective play.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.profootballfocus.com/data/signature.php?tab=signature&amp;season=2014&amp;pos=cbs&amp;teamid=-1&amp;filter=50&amp;conf=-1&amp;yr=-1&amp;wk=1-2-3-4-5-6-7-8-9-10-11-12-13-14-15-16-17">Pro Football Focus</a> ranked Williams 40th among 59 qualifying cornerbacks against the run, though he did <a href="https://www.profootballfocus.com/data/signature.php?tab=signature&amp;season=2014&amp;pos=cbc&amp;teamid=-1&amp;filter=50&amp;conf=-1&amp;yr=-1&amp;wk=1-2-3-4-5-6-7-8-9-10-11-12-13-14-15-16-17">fare a bit better</a>&nbsp;in pass coverage. Its grading system ranked him <a href="https://www.profootballfocus.com/data/by_position.php?tab=by_position&amp;season=2014&amp;pos=CB&amp;runpass=&amp;teamid=-1&amp;numsnaps=25&amp;numgames=1&amp;conf=-1&amp;yr=-1&amp;wk=1-2-3-4-5-6-7-8-9-10-11-12-13-14-15-16-17">49th <span>overall&nbsp;</span>league-wide</a>.&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="https://twitter.com/JasonLaCanfora/status/572806397525676033">Jason La Canfora&nbsp;of CBS Sports</a> noted that Williams' desire to return to Baltimore might not be reciprocated, noting "drama" from his time there. Williams <a href="http://espn.go.com/nfl/story/_/id/11566969/cary-williams-says-chip-kelly-overworking-eagles-practice">was also critical</a> of Eagles head coach Chip Kelly's practice habits last September.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><em>Follow Tyler Conway (<a href="https://twitter.com/tylerconway22">@tylerconway22</a>) on Twitter.</em></p><p>Read more <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/nfl" title="NFL analysis, news and photos">NFL</a> news on BleacherReport.com</p>Tue, 03 Mar 2015 12:34:38 -0500http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383531-cary-williams-latest-news-rumors-and-speculation-surrounding-free-agent-cb
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383531-cary-williams-latest-news-rumors-and-speculation-surrounding-free-agent-cbhttp://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383531-cary-williams-latest-news-rumors-and-speculation-surrounding-free-agent-cbNFLBreaking NewsCary WilliamsMaurice Jones-Drew Compares New Raiders HC Jack Del Rio to Frank UnderwoodTeam Stream Now<p><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt=""></p>
<p>The <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/oakland-raiders">Oakland Raiders</a> have a new head coach in Jack Del Rio, who is apparently drawing comparisons to a well-known and intimidating television character.&nbsp;</p>
<p>What does Del Rio have in common with Frank Underwood from <em>House of Cards</em>?&nbsp;</p>
<p>Watch as Stephen Nelson and <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/maurice-jones-drew">Maurice Jones-Drew</a> discuss Oakland's new head coach in the video above.</p><p>Read more <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/nfl" title="NFL analysis, news and photos">NFL</a> news on BleacherReport.com</p>Tue, 03 Mar 2015 12:28:37 -0500http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383549-maurice-jones-drew-compares-new-raiders-hc-jack-del-rio-to-frank-underwood
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383549-maurice-jones-drew-compares-new-raiders-hc-jack-del-rio-to-frank-underwoodhttp://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383549-maurice-jones-drew-compares-new-raiders-hc-jack-del-rio-to-frank-underwoodFootballNFLAFC WestOakland RaidersMaurice Jones-DrewJack Del RioOpinionCary Williams Released by Eagles: Latest Details, Comments and Reaction Timothy Rapp<p class="ui-droppable"><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt="">In a cost-cutting move and perhaps as an indictment of one of the league's worst pass defenses last season, the Philadelphia Eagles have cut ties with cornerback <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/cary-williams">Cary Williams</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
<p>The team <a href="https://twitter.com/Eagles/status/572800468025532416">made the move</a> official on Twitter.</p>
<p>As Mike Garafolo of Fox Sports tweeted, the move clears up some cap space for the Birds:</p>
<p><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt=""></p>
<p>Williams spoke on the team's decision after the news was announced, via&nbsp;Eliot Shorr-Parks&nbsp;of NJ.com:</p>
<p><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt=""><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt=""></p>
<p>Williams also said he wasn't offered a pay cut to stay in Philadelphia, via <a href="https://twitter.com/caplannfl/status/572809063467225088" target="_blank">Adam Caplan</a> of ESPN.</p>
<p>Williams, who was signed for the team before the 2013 season, finished last year with 60 tackles and two interceptions. But he and fellow starter Bradley Fletcher were much maligned in Philadelphia and considered a major reason why the team finished 31st in pass defense.</p>
<p>And Fletcher is likely the next to go, per Ian Rapoport of <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/nfl">NFL</a>.com:</p>
<p><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt=""></p>
<p>For the Eagles, the move means that they are likely to hit free agency hard in an effort to retool the secondary, and perhaps the draft as well. With a number of solid corners on the free-agent market, the team should be able to upgrade the position from a year ago and have the cap space to do so.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Williams, meanwhile, could be heading back to a team he has already played for, via Aaron Wilson of&nbsp;<em>The Baltimore Sun</em> and CBS Sports' Jason La Canfora:</p>
<p><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt=""></p>
<p><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt=""></p>
<p>The Baltimore Ravens need to upgrade their secondary as well and could likely get Williams for a reasonable price.</p>
<p>The fit certainly makes sense, though after a tough 2014 season, Williams will have a lot to prove no matter where he ends up next.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="https://twitter.com/TRappaRT" target="_blank"><img src="http://twitter-badges.s3.amazonaws.com/follow_me-c.png" alt="Follow TRappaRT on Twitter"></a></p><p>Read more <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/nfl" title="NFL analysis, news and photos">NFL</a> news on BleacherReport.com</p>Tue, 03 Mar 2015 12:17:26 -0500http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383516-cary-williams-released-by-eagles-latest-details-comments-and-reaction
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383516-cary-williams-released-by-eagles-latest-details-comments-and-reactionhttp://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383516-cary-williams-released-by-eagles-latest-details-comments-and-reactionNFLBreaking NewsCary WilliamsColts Punter Pat McAfee Uses Twitter to Recruit Ndamukong Suh to IndianapolisKyle Newport<img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif"><p class="ui-droppable">Indianapolis Colts punter Pat <span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck">McAfee</span></span> is pretty savvy with Twitter, so he has decided to use his <a href="https://twitter.com/patmcafeeshow/status/554442838365048832" target="_blank">social media skills</a>&nbsp;to recruit free agents to Indianapolis.</p><p class="ui-droppable">The Detroit Lions <a href="http://espn.go.com/nfl/story/_/id/12407255/ndamukong-suh-set-free-agent-detroit-lions-forgo-tag">opted not</a> to place the franchise tag on <span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck">Ndamukong</span></span> <span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck">Suh</span></span>, which means the defensive tackle is set to become an unrestricted free agent on March 10.</p><p class="ui-droppable">The four-time Pro Bowler will be getting plenty of attention once free agency begins, so&nbsp;<span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck">McAfee</span></span> decided to get a jump on the competition and start recruiting <span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck">Suh</span></span> early. Based on <span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck">McAfee</span></span>'s picture, "Indianapolis" looks like a really nice place to be right now&mdash;especially considering how cold and snowy this winter has been for parts of the country.</p><p class="ui-droppable">Suh isn't the only player the Colts punter is trying to bring to Indy. McAfee also sent out a tweet to Houston Texans receiver <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/andre-johnson">Andre Johnson</a>, who&mdash;according to the <a href="https://twitter.com/McClain_on_NFL/status/572568134625841152" target="_blank"><em>Houston Chronicle</em>'s John McClain</a>&mdash;has asked to be traded or released.</p><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif"><p class="ui-droppable"><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt=""></p><p class="ui-droppable">Hopefully, <span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck">McAfee</span></span> continues to use Twitter to recruit free agents this offseason. If he does, you will definitely want to follow him.</p><p class="ui-droppable">[<a href="https://twitter.com/PatMcAfeeShow/status/572433240876834816">Pat <span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck">McAfee</span></span></a>]</p><p>Read more <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/nfl" title="NFL analysis, news and photos">NFL</a> news on BleacherReport.com</p>Tue, 03 Mar 2015 11:57:39 -0500http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383501-colts-punter-pat-mcafee-uses-twitter-to-recruit-ndamukong-suh-to-indianapolis
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383501-colts-punter-pat-mcafee-uses-twitter-to-recruit-ndamukong-suh-to-indianapolishttp://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383501-colts-punter-pat-mcafee-uses-twitter-to-recruit-ndamukong-suh-to-indianapolisNFLBreaking NewsStevan Ridley Injury: Updates on Free Agent RB's Recovery from Knee SurgeryMike Chiari<p class="ui-droppable"><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt="">Running back <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/stevan-ridley">Stevan Ridley</a> is set to hit free agency March 10, and the former New England Patriots draft choice is seemingly rounding into form at the perfect time after suffering a <a href="http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000410505/article/stevan-ridley-tears-acl-mcl-lost-for-patriots-season">torn ACL and MCL</a> last season.</p>
<p>Continue for updates.</p>
<hr><h2>Ridley Hopeful for May Return</h2>
<h4>Tuesday, March 3</h4>
<p>Ridley's 2014 campaign was limited to just six games due to injury, but the 26-year-old back is currently on track to be ready for 2015.</p>
<p>According to Shalise Manza Young of&nbsp;<em>The Boston Globe</em>, Ridley's target return month is May due to the success of his rehabilitation thus far:</p>
<p><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt=""></p>
<p>Ridley's progress is clear based on this video of the former LSU standout running, courtesy of his Instagram account:</p>
<p><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt=""></p>
<p>It seems somewhat unlikely that Ridley will be retained by the Pats with the likes of LeGarrette Blount and Jonas Gray on the roster, but he could generate some interest on the open market if he continues to heal at a rapid rate.</p>
<p>Ridley is still young, and he is just a few years removed from a 2012 season that saw him top 1,200 yards and 12 touchdowns. Entering free agency coming off a significant injury can be tough, but Ridley seems to be making the most of the situation.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><em>Follow <a href="https://twitter.com/MikeChiari">@MikeChiari</a> on Twitter</em></p><p>Read more <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/nfl" title="NFL analysis, news and photos">NFL</a> news on BleacherReport.com</p>Tue, 03 Mar 2015 11:41:13 -0500http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383459-stevan-ridley-injury-updates-on-free-agent-rbs-recovery-from-knee-surgery
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383459-stevan-ridley-injury-updates-on-free-agent-rbs-recovery-from-knee-surgeryhttp://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383459-stevan-ridley-injury-updates-on-free-agent-rbs-recovery-from-knee-surgeryNFLBreaking NewsAndrew Luck Looks Nearly Unrecognizable Without Famous NeckbeardKyle Newport<p class="ui-droppable"><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt="">Although Indianapolis Colts quarterback&nbsp;<a href="http://bleacherreport.com/andrew-luck">Andrew Luck</a> is best known for his strong arm, he has also received a lot of attention for his legendary <span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck">neckbeard</span></span>.</p>
<p>The last time we saw Luck on the football field, his <span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck">neckbeard</span></span> was going strong:</p>
<p><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt=""></p>
<p><span>Well, the <span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck">neckbeard</span></span> is no more.</span></p>
<p><span>Luck is (or was recently) down in Australia, a</span><span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck">ccording</span></span> to Twitter users Greg <span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck">Prichard</span></span> and @<span class="spellcheck"><span class="spellcheck">jwye<a href="http://bleacherreport.com/nfl">NFL</a></span></span>. Both of them were fortunate enough to run into Luck and snag a picture with the star quarterback. Warning: What you are about to see will blow your mind.</p>
<p><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt=""><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt=""></p>
<p>This new look should make his <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2322425-andrew-luck-says-his-mother-and-girlfriend-hate-his-neck-beard">mother and girlfriend</a> very happy.</p>
<p>[Twitter, h/t <a href="http://bustedcoverage.com/2015/03/02/andrew-luck-shaved-his-beard/">Busted Coverage</a>]</p><p>Read more <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/nfl" title="NFL analysis, news and photos">NFL</a> news on BleacherReport.com</p>Tue, 03 Mar 2015 11:11:34 -0500http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383414-andrew-luck-looks-nearly-unrecognizable-without-famous-neckbeard
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383414-andrew-luck-looks-nearly-unrecognizable-without-famous-neckbeardhttp://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383414-andrew-luck-looks-nearly-unrecognizable-without-famous-neckbeardNFLBreaking NewsC.J. Spiller Speaks on Differences Between EJ Manuel and Kyle Orton as QBsMike Chiari<p class="ui-droppable"><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt="">Quarterback <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/ej-manuel">EJ Manuel</a> lost his starting job with the Buffalo Bills in 2014, and running back <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/cj-spiller">C.J. Spiller</a> shed some light on why the 2013 first-round pick's initial stint as an <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/nfl">NFL</a> starter didn't work out Tuesday.</p>
<p>According to ESPN.com's <a href="http://espn.go.com/blog/nflnation/post/_/id/162774/c-j-spiller-says-ej-manuel-was-too-buddy-buddy-with-players">Mike Rodak</a>, the free-agent-to-be revealed on NFL Network that the former Florida State signal-caller struggled to command the huddle like eventual replacement Kyle Orton did.</p>
<blockquote>
<p><span>I think the biggest thing that he learned was when Kyle came in and took over, I think he learned you can't be buddy-buddy with everybody. You the face of the franchise. You the quarterback. So you have to demand certain things&mdash;you have to demand everything. You have to let the receivers know where they should be if they want to get the ball. You have the let the running back know, 'This is where the blitz is coming from. I need you to get over there and pick it up.'&nbsp;</span><span>I think early on, he just really didn't understand how to step on guys' toes. Once Kyle took over, he seen how Kyle did it, and that kinda helped him.</span></p>
</blockquote>
<p><span>The Bills went 7-5 with Orton under center, but the veteran decided to <a href="http://www.buffalobills.com/news/article-1/Kyle-Orton-announces-retirement/d237d2a4-ee85-44a5-8b7e-7d2ce7aa0153">call it a career</a> at the conclusion of the season. That leaves Manuel as then only viable starting option on the roster currently, although Buffalo will almost certainly address the situation in free agency and potentially in the 2015 NFL draft as well.</span></p>
<p><span>Manuel's career numbers are modest at best through 14 career starts, but as seen in this graphic courtesy of Sportsnet's Justin Dunk, it takes time for even the best quarterbacks to develop:</span></p>
<p><img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif" alt=""></p>
<p><span>Spiller also praised Manuel's work ethic, and while he may not be in Buffalo to see it happen in 2015, he feels the young signal-caller can be the franchise guy the Bills hoped he would be when they drafted him, per <a href="http://espn.go.com/blog/nflnation/post/_/id/162774/c-j-spiller-says-ej-manuel-was-too-buddy-buddy-with-players">Rodak</a>.</span></p>
<p><span><span>"I hope he will," Spiller said. "I think he has everything he needs to be a successful quarterback. I think if Buffalo gives him a chance, he can definitely (lead) the organization."</span></span></p>
<p><span><span>The Bills have one of the NFL's best defenses, and their roster as whole may be good enough to end a playoff drought that has lasted since 1999.</span></span></p>
<p><span><span>As is often the case, though, it will likely come down to the play of the quarterback whether it's Manuel or someone else.</span></span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><em>Follow <a href="https://twitter.com/MikeChiari">@MikeChiari</a> on Twitter</em></p><p>Read more <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/nfl" title="NFL analysis, news and photos">NFL</a> news on BleacherReport.com</p>Tue, 03 Mar 2015 10:36:26 -0500http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383363-cj-spiller-speaks-on-differences-between-ej-manuel-and-kyle-orton-as-qbs
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383363-cj-spiller-speaks-on-differences-between-ej-manuel-and-kyle-orton-as-qbshttp://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383363-cj-spiller-speaks-on-differences-between-ej-manuel-and-kyle-orton-as-qbsNFLBreaking NewsRun-Stopping DT Headlines Minnesota Vikings' 2015 Free-Agent Big BoardTeam Stream Now<img class="slot" src="/images/pixel.gif"><p class="ui-droppable">The <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/minnesota-vikings">Minnesota Vikings</a> have some needs to address this offseason.</p><p class="ui-droppable">Who should the Vikings target in free agency? What areas do they need to improve on?</p><p class="ui-droppable">Watch as Adam Lefkoe and Bleacher Report NFL Analyst Chris Simms discuss the Vikings' offseason in the video above.</p><p>Read more <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/nfl" title="NFL analysis, news and photos">NFL</a> news on BleacherReport.com</p>Tue, 03 Mar 2015 10:11:39 -0500http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383355-run-stopping-dt-headlines-minnesota-vikings-2015-free-agent-big-board
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383355-run-stopping-dt-headlines-minnesota-vikings-2015-free-agent-big-boardhttp://bleacherreport.com/articles/2383355-run-stopping-dt-headlines-minnesota-vikings-2015-free-agent-big-boardFootballNFLNFC NorthMinnesota VikingsOpinion